Click here for current US Department of the Treasury Cuba travel rules FAQ.

Six key Questions and Answers about Trump’s Cuba policy

What changes did Trump actually make on June 16th, 2017 related to Cuba travel?

Trump cancelled the popular individual self-directed general license category of people-to-people travel. Many of thousands of Americans used this license to visit Cuba in 2016 and 2017.

Trump did not cancel people-to-people travel sponsored by US tour operators. Americans can visit Cuba with family or friends on private or public tours if arranged by a US-based tour operator. Educational travel for schools remains the same, it has not been cut.

Trump has prohibited American visitors from using hospitality services provided by the Cuban military, which manages many of the island’s hotels, restaurants and transportation resources.

How will I know if my travel dollars are going to the Cuban military?

The US State Department will publish a list of Cuban entities with which “direct transactions are generally prohibited.” If you travel with a US tour operator, they assume responsibility for compliance.

When will Trump’s June 16, 2107 changes be implemented?

The Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has 90 days to draft, adopt and issue the new regulations.

Can I purchase an airline ticket and a Cuban Tourist Visa to come to Cuba?

Americans can continue to purchase air tickets and Cuba Tourist Visas for a Cuba tour.

Can I bring home Cuban souvenirs, rum and cigars?

Yes. There are no spending limits while in Cuba or on the value of items you can bring home for personal use including rum and cigars (which are subject to US customs duties).

Will Trump’s Cuba travel rules be enforced?

Trump has directed his Department of the Treasury to “stringently” audit American travelers likely resulting in more scrutiny at US airports from immigrations and customs agents, and increased post travel record requests. Travelers must maintain a full schedule of licensable activities in Cuba and keep trip records for five years. US tour operators maintain these records for their US tour participants and provide certification of authorized Cuba travel.

Source Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) Frequently Asked Questions on President Trump’s Cuba Announcement, June 16, 2017, and July 25, 2017.

More questions about legal Cuba travel?

We welcome your inquiries. Call us toll free at 1-347-762-0263 or Email us with your inquiries.

Hotel star rankings are assigned based upon the number of amenities and services offered. This designation system is used in the Americas. In Cuba, hotels are generally older and less well maintained than in the United States. So, for example, a five star hotel in Cuba, while having the same number of amenities and services, will not appear or feel like a similarly appointed facility in the States.

Comparing star ratings in Cuba to those in the United States

Five Stars. Facilities with the best accommodations available in Cuba with a full range amenities and services. Equivalent to four star in the States. Few are avaliable and they are expensive.

Four Stars. Good facilities offering quality accommodations with many amenities and services. Equivalent to a three-star hotel in America.

Three Stars. Medium class facilities with comfortable rooms, fewer of amenities and services. Good if on a budget. Comparable to modest three star in the North.

Two Stars. Modest accommodations with limited amenities and services. Can be uncomfortable. Think roadside motel.

One Star. Basic accommodations offering few amenities and services – similar to a hostel for youth and backpackers.